"Iron Bill" shows his mettle

March 15, 2014 |Photos by Marie D. De Jesus and James Nielsen / Houston Chronicle

Capt. Bill Dowling suffered serious brain injuries and lost both his legs after fighting a massive motel fire on May 31, 2013.

Marie D. De Jesus/Houston Chronicle

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Captain Bill Dowling receives help to sit up from his sister Mary Harrison, left, and a family friend Courtney Rainville, right, at Dowling's therapy room located in his home in Tomball. The exercise consists of sitting Dowling up and then allowing him to hold the position on his own to strengthen his core.

Marie D. De Jesus/Houston Chronicle

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Captain Bill Dowling receives help to sit up from his sister Mary Harrison, left, and a family friend Courtney Rainville, right, at Dowling's therapy room located in his home in Tomball. The exercise consists of sitting Dowling up and then allowing him to hold the position on his own to strengthen his core.